Charging for school activities

Find out what activities and equipment you can and can't charge parents for and how to request payment.

Last reviewed on 1 November 2023See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 32580
Contents
  1. You must have a charging and remissions policy
  2. What can and can't we charge for?
  3. You can't usually charge for transport to school
  4. You can charge for some music tuition
  5. You can charge for some personal care items
  6. You can ask for voluntary contributions
  7. How to request payment

The cost-of-living crisis is affecting many schools, and you may be looking to change the way you operate. It's important to remember that there are set rules for what you can and cannot charge for – and with parents' budgets likely feeling the same pressure, they may not be able to afford additional costs.

You must have a charging and remissions policy

Download and adapt our model policy or use our checklist to find out what to include. 

This article is based on advice from the DfE on charging for school activities. It applies to all maintained schools.

Academies: it also applies to you through your funding agreement (though check your funding agreement to be sure). 

What can and can't we charge for?

Education provided during school hours (including the supply of materials, books, instruments or other equipment) Education provided outside of school hours if it's part of: The National Curriculum A syllabus for an exam that your school is